OSHKOSH - Over the next several days, the National Weather Service is predicting dangerously low temperatures in the area. The Oshkosh Area Humane Society is asking pet owners to limit their pets' time outside.

“Any animal will suffer if left outside in extremely low temperatures," said Joni Geiger, Oshkosh Area Humane Society executive director. "It’s up to all of us to protect them. Short-haired dog breeds like Labrador retrievers, beagles and terriers, along with very young and elderly dogs are most susceptible to hypothermia, a potentially deadly condition where body temperature falls below normal."

It is also important to limit exercise time outdoors during periods of extreme temperatures. According to the Oshkosh Area Humane Society, dogs should only be let out for as long as they need to go to the bathroom and owners should be supervising for signs of discomfort such as lifting paws, shivering and difficulty walking.

Geiger says it is important for the community to speak up if they see an animal left outdoors.

“If you see an animal outside in this weather and there are no signs of their owner or they are chained outside without access to a proper shelter, call your local law enforcement immediately. It becomes a matter of life and death.”

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Bubbles freeze in seconds during the brutal cold snap that hit Wisconsin in January 2019.
Sarah Kloepping, USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin